The new coronavirus is spreading across the Pacific Northwest. Here some basic things to know:

• Coronavirus is more severe and more contagious than the flu. Take it seriously but don’t panic.• The elderly and immune-compromised are most at-risk, but everyone can get sick.• If you are sick stay home, self-quarantine and call your doctor.• Practice social distancing. Avoid large gatherings, or small gatherings in tight spaces. At-risk people and people with underlying conditions should stay at home.• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. Hand sanitizer is a backup option.• Cough into a sleeve. Wash hands after coughing. Avoid touching your face.• Sterilize things you touch often, like computers, phones, keys, and tablets.• If you have prescriptions, call your doctor and ask for a 3-month supply in case of drug shortages.

Closing state campgrounds was the first step. But over the weekend, crowds continued to gather at popular hiking spots – not taking note of six-foot social distancing guidelines to help prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus.

Now, the Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife (WDFW) and State Parks and Recreation Commission are closing the gates to parks, wildlife areas and water access areas. All campgrounds will be closed through April 30.

The closure includes trails, water access sites and wildlife areas. WDFW is also canceling all planned razor clam digs.

Commissioner of Public Lands Hilary Franz says, initially, people had expected it would be good for families to get outdoors, as closures around the state increased. But that wasn’t the case.

“Unfortunately, the way our trails are designed and the limited number of recreation areas we have – compared to people who want to enjoy them in times like this – it means there isn’t an ability to create a six-foot distancing. We can’t draw the lines like our grocery stores have on the ground and keep people apart,” Franz said.

“We are now seeing that we are threatening peoples’ lives by just having these areas be open for them to enjoy,” she continued.

Franz said the two-week closure could be extended, depending on the situation and Gov. Jay Inslee’s orders.

Timber harvests and agricultural lands on DNR-managed property will still be considered “essential functions” and will be able to operate. Workers will have to comply with social distancing guidelines.

All state parks in Oregon closed Monday, which will last until May 8. Idaho has closed its visitor’s centers, yurts and other shelters. State parks there remain open for camping and day uses.

National Parks in Washington and Oregon closed to comply with each state’s “Stay Home, Stay Healthy” order. Mount Rainier National Park closed all park roads to public vehicles, although the backcountry will remain open “for dispersed recreation in accordance with the latest federal, state, and local health guidance.”

In Oregon, Crater Lake National Park closed to all visitors beginning Tuesday, with the exception of Oregon State Highway 62, which runs through the southern edge of the park.